Carter Taylor Trail

Carter Taylor Trail is a ~10.2–10.5 mile long loop in central Virginia, routed through Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest and around Holliday Lake State Park.

Most hikers find it a moderate effort, with about 650–715 ft of total climbing and a typical 3.5–4.5 hour finish time.

Navigation is straightforward but requires attention: the route uses red metal blazes as its primary marker.

The tread and surfaces mix singletrack dirt, grassy stretches, fire roads, and some gravel, with a few creek crossings included in the loop.

Expect a changing mix of hardwood forest, wetlands, and open fields as you move through the route corridor.

The route shares the same landscape as an historic Civil War-era movement corridor, where portions of the woods were used during General Lee’s retreat in the final days of the war.

Because it’s multi-use, plan to share the path with hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikes when you encounter them on or near narrow segments.

Preparation matters in the field: scout/inspect the marked features you’ll be crossing (especially the creek points) and check current conditions if it’s wet, since unpaved surfaces and water crossings can change how passable they feel.

More information: Hiking at Virginia State Parks, Holliday Lake State Park: Carter Taylor Trail - Bivy Stick, Appomattox-Buckingham SF--Carter Taylor Trailhead